Training a Sprocker Spaniel into a well-behaved companion is no mean feat.
However, with a systematic approach focusing on key behavioural areas, it’s entirely achievable.
Here, we delve into those specifics to provide tangible Training Tips for a Well-Behaved Sprocker Spaniel.
Fostering Good Social Behaviour
Sprockers are inherently social. However, they need to learn acceptable social behaviour.
This includes not being overly aggressive or excessively timid around other animals and humans.
Tips:
Gradual exposure: Start by exposing your Sprocker to different people, environments, and animals. Use a calm and pleasant tone to create a positive association with these experiences.
Reward calm behaviour: Whenever your Sprocker remains calm in a social situation, reinforce this behaviour by giving them a treat or praise.
Mastering Recall: Coming When Called
Getting your Sprocker to come to you when called is a vital safety command.
Tips:
Start indoors: Begin training in a quiet, distraction-free space.
Use treats: Call your Sprocker’s name, and when they come to you, reward them with a treat and praise.
Gradually add distractions: Once your dog reliably responds indoors, practice outdoors with more distractions.
The “Sit” Command
Teaching your Sprocker Spaniel to sit on command is a useful tool for managing behaviour.
Tips:
Use a treat: Hold a treat above your Sprocker’s nose, move it backwards over their head. As their head goes up and back, their bottom will go down.
Introduce the command: Once your Sprocker reliably sits for the treat, start adding the command “sit”.
Reward compliance: Always reward your Sprocker when they sit on command.
No More Jumping Up
Sprockers get excited easily, leading to jumping up on people.
Tips:
Ignore the jumping: When your Sprocker jumps up, cross your arms, avoid eye contact, and turn away.
Reward all four on the floor: Only give attention, petting, or treats when your Sprocker has all four paws on the ground.
No Pulling on the Lead
Walking nicely on a lead is an important skill.
Tips:
Be a tree: If your Sprocker pulls, stop walking. Only move when the lead is slack.
Reward good behaviour: Regularly reward your Sprocker with treats and praise when they’re walking nicely on the lead.
Preventing Excessive Chewing
Chewing is natural, but it becomes a problem when it’s destructive.
Tips:
Provide chew toys: Always have acceptable chew toys available.
Redirect chewing: If your Sprocker starts to chew something inappropriate, redirect them to a chew toy.
Curbing Excessive Barking
While barking is a form of communication, excessive barking can be problematic.
Tips:
Identify triggers: Recognize what’s causing the barking.
Desensitization: Gradually expose your Sprocker to the trigger in a controlled way, rewarding calm behaviour.
Quiet command: Teach a “quiet” command to stop barking on command.
Cultivating a Well-Balanced Dog
A well-balanced dog is happy, confident, and behaves appropriately.
Tips:
Consistency: Be consistent with rules and routines.
Exercise and enrichment: Ensure your Sprocker has enough physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Positive reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement to reward good behaviour.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Training a Sprocker Spaniel into a well-behaved dog requires time, patience, and consistency.
But with these expert tips, you’re well on your way to having a well-behaved, well-balanced Sprocker Spaniel.
How long does it take to train a Sprocker Spaniel?
Training duration depends on the specific dog, their age, and consistency in training. It’s an ongoing process, but most dogs start to show progress within a few weeks of consistent training.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when training a Sprocker Spaniel?
Common mistakes include inconsistency in commands and rewards, punishment-based techniques, and not investing enough time in training and socialisation.
Why is my Sprocker Spaniel not responding to training?
Factors could include medical issues, lack of consistency in training, or not using rewards that are motivating enough for your Sprocker Spaniel.
Are Sprocker Spaniels easy to train?
Yes, Sprocker Spaniels are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train with the right methods.
How can I ensure my Sprocker Spaniel’s good behaviour in public places?
Consistent training, socialisation, and using rewards to reinforce good behaviour are key. Also, managing your dog’s environment can help prevent unwanted behaviours.
What do I do if my Sprocker Spaniel is behaving aggressively?
Seek professional help if your Sprocker Spaniel is exhibiting aggressive behaviours. Aggression could be due to fear, anxiety, or health issues that need to be addressed.
